Let's take a minute to talk about your medication.

This is cholestyramine. This medicine helps to lower bad cholesterol, which is also known as 'LDL cholesterol.' It may have other uses, too. Some people take 'cholestyramine light,' which uses aspartame as the sweetener.

You should take this medicine exactly as your doctor tells you to. If you take other medicines, you cannot take them at the same time of day. You should take other medicines at least one hour before, or four hours after you take this medicine. 

Cholestyramine is a dry powder. You should always mix the powder in a full glass of water or other drinks with no carbonation. Or, you can mix the powder with food, like soup or applesauce. Make sure you get the full dose, and do not leave any powder in your glass or bowl. It is important to never take the dry powder by itself. 

Most people tolerate this medicine well. A common side effect is constipation. To reduce constipation, you should drink plenty of fluids, and eat foods that are high in fiber. Some people choose to take a stool softener. Side effects that are less common include stomach pain, gas, indigestion and nausea. These effects are normal if they are mild and should go away. To prevent this medicine from building-up on your teeth, be sure to brush them well twice a day. If these or other side effects become reasons you want to stop taking this medicine, please talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

As with any medicine, rare but more serious side effects could occur. Tell your doctor if you notice any unusual changes to your body.

For best results with cholestyramine, be sure to follow your doctor's advice for diet and exercise.